Alexander county and historic Cairo in Southernmost Illinois

With two great rivers at its doorstep, historic Cairo houses many landmarks that hint at its once important Civil War role and its flirt with greatness in river and rail commerce. Founded as a commercial center joining river and rail traffic, Cairo expanded to meet the enormous demands of the Civil War. This strategic location became headquarters, supply depot and hospital for the Western front.

High on a hill above the Mississippi River in Thebes sits the 1848 Court House. Standing after 160 years, it is a testament to the architect H. A. Barkhausen and preservation. This landmark is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visit Tamms and you will find the 1899 Depot. This building has unique style and served both the M&O and C&EI Railroads at one time.

Cairo remains a place where history lovers with imagination can revisit the romance and charm of a 19th century river town. The National Register of Historic Places lists Cairo as ‘one of the most fascinating cities in the State of Illinois.’ During your visit to Alexander County, be sure to sample one of our ever-so-popular barbecues.

For the outdoors enthusiast, Alexander County offers acres of farming and prime hunting, especially the Horseshoe Lake Area known as the ‘Goose Capital of Illinois.’ Horseshoe Lake is a paradise for bow and arrow hunters, fishermen, photographers, bicyclers and picnickers.

You’re invited to visit us anytime throughout the year. It’s easy to get here from Interstates 57 or 24. We’re less than three hours from St. Louis, Memphis, Nashville, or Evansville. We are eager to assist you in any way to make your stay in Southernmost Illinois memorable.